Local Transportation: Uppsala

Public Transportation in Detail

Uppsala boasts an extensive bus network covering the entire city and its surrounding areas. The main hub for all public transport is Uppsala Central Station (Uppsala Resecentrum). Most city and regional bus lines converge here, making it a central point for transfers.

Detailed bus route maps are on the official UL website, within the UL app, and displayed at many bus stops. Buses are clearly numbered, and their digital displays show their destination, making navigation straightforward.

Ticketing & Fares

UL App: Easiest way to purchase tickets (single, 24-hour, 72-hour). Activate on phone before boarding.
Travel Card (UL-kort): A reloadable card accessible for purchase at UL customer service centers or retailers.
Contactless Card: Some buses permit direct payment using a contactless credit or debit card.
Single ticket (Uppsala city zone): 35-40 SEK, valid for 75 minutes. 24-hour ticket: 120-140 SEK.

Operating Hours

Buses operate from early morning (around 5 AM) until late evening or midnight. Reduced service runs overnight.

Frequency

Frequencies are high on main routes during peak hours (every 5-10 minutes), lessening during off-peak times and on weekends (every 15-30 minutes).

Accessibility

UL public transport generally holds high accessibility. Most buses feature low-floor designs and ramps for wheelchair access.

Efficiency Tips

Smart Navigation

Download the UL App for real-time bus tracking, journey planning, and ticket purchases.
Google Maps integrates UL data, providing accurate and up-to-date travel information.
Plan journeys in advance, especially for longer trips or during off-peak hours, to minimize waiting times.

Utilizing Services

Uppsala Central Station serves as the main hub for transfers between bus lines and trains.
Consider purchasing a 24-hour or 72-hour UL ticket if you plan multiple journeys, for better value.
Ensure your ticket is active or validated before boarding; fare inspectors conduct checks.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Look for yellow number plates. Reputable companies include Uppsala Taxi and Taxi Kurir.

Hailing & Pricing

Find taxis at stands (Uppsala Central Station) or call directly. Confirm price or ask for fixed fare before journey.

Payment & Apps

Credit cards are universally accepted. Bolt operates in Uppsala; Uber has some presence.

Safety & Availability

Generally safe. Service availability for ride-sharing apps varies, especially during off-peak hours.

Rental Options for Exploration

Bicycle rentals are a popular choice within the city, allowing for pleasant exploration. Car rental for exploring beyond Uppsala.

Car Rental Requirements

Minimum age typically 18-19, often 20-25 with an additional young driver surcharge.
Valid national driving license (held for at least 1-2 years). IDP advisable for non-EU/EEA licenses.
A credit card is a must for the deposit and payment.
Winter tires are a must from December 1 to March 31 if winter road conditions are found.

Booking & Companies

International car rental brands like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, and Enterprise operate offices.
Booking your car in advance is advisable, especially during high season, for availability and better rates.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for short-term tourist use.
Bicycle rentals are popular; several shops offer them. Prices typically 150-250 SEK per day.

Driving Laws & Road Conditions

Drive on the right side of the road.
Headlights must be on at all times, even during daylight.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.

Strict drunk driving laws apply, with a limit of 0.02% blood alcohol content.
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless using a hands-free device.
Paid parking is frequent in city centers. Use parking apps like EasyPark or Parkster for payment.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Uppsala's compact city center welcomes pedestrians. Many streets are accessible only to walkers or have limited vehicle traffic.

Walking Tour Options

Various local tour operators hold guided walking tours. Maps and information for self-guided walks are available from the tourist information office.

Bicycle Infrastructure

Uppsala boasts an extensive network of dedicated bicycle paths and lanes, making it one of Sweden's most bike-friendly cities.

Specialized Transport & Accessibility

Uppsala mainly relies on its public buses, trains, and bike infrastructure. Specialized tourist transportation options are less prevalent than in larger capital cities.

Niche Transport Options

Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services are less common in Uppsala.
During summer, small leisure boats or river cruises operate on the Fyrisån river within Uppsala.
Kayak and canoe rentals are popular options for exploring the river.
Uppsala does not have cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems.

Accessibility Services

UL public transport is generally accessible with ramps, and major train stations have features for accessibility.
Some taxi companies may offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles upon request. It is advisable to call in advance.
Major attractions like Uppsala Cathedral and Uppsala Castle offer varying degrees of accessibility.
Pavements are generally maintained well, but historical areas feature cobblestones, which can present challenges.

Accessibility Notes

Public Transport

UL buses feature low-floor designs and ramps for wheelchair access. Many bus stops include tactile paving.

Modern trains offer good accessibility.

Attraction Access

Many newer or renovated buildings hold good access. Always check specific attraction websites or contact them directly.

For detailed information before your visit.

Pavement Conditions

Pavements are generally maintained well.

Be aware that some historical areas feature cobblestones.

Local Transport Safety

Walking & Cycling Safety

No specific "no-go" areas exist in Uppsala for pedestrians or cyclists from a safety perspective.
Always stick to marked paths and abide by traffic signals.
Cyclists generally follow traffic rules. Be aware of pedestrians and other cyclists.

Driving & General Safety

Some industrial areas or major roads might feel less pleasant for walking or cycling due to vehicle traffic.
For taxis, always confirm the yellow number plate and ask for a fixed price for transparency.
Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially late at night, regardless of your chosen transport method.

Travel Reminders

Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless hands-free.
Fines for illegal parking are high, so park only in designated areas.
Always prioritize safety, whether walking, cycling, or using vehicles.
Remember Sweden's cashless tendency; credit/debit cards are the main payment method.

Tap water is potable and safe to drink. Bottled water for safety is unnecessary.
Pack layers for all seasons, as weather changes quickly.
Familiarize yourself with maps and public transport apps.
Keep digital copies of all essential travel documents.

General Local Travel Advice

Optimal local travel stems from leveraging Uppsala's walkability, bike-friendliness, and efficient public transport.

Maximizing Mobility

Explore the compact city center comfortably on foot.
Utilize the extensive network of dedicated bicycle paths for easy movement.
Rely on the UL bus network for city-wide and regional travel.
Use local commuter trains for connections to nearby towns and Stockholm.

Practicalities

Download the UL app for easy ticket purchases and real-time updates on transport.
Carry travel-friendly credit/debit cards, as Sweden operates cashless.
Consider car rental for exploring beyond Uppsala or with specific itinerary needs.
Always be mindful of local traffic rules, whether walking, cycling, or driving.

Extensive Bus Network

Uppsala's bus network covers the entire city and surrounding areas efficiently.

Bike-Friendly City

Dedicated bicycle paths make cycling a popular and easy way to get around.

Regional Train Links

Local commuter trains connect Uppsala to nearby towns and Stockholm.

Accessibility Features

Public Transport Access

UL buses feature low-floor designs and are equipped with ramps for wheelchair access.
Many bus stops include tactile paving, guiding visually impaired passengers.
Modern trains hold good accessibility, and major stations provide ramps and lifts.

Other Access Notes

Some taxi companies offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles upon request. It is advisable to call in advance.
Major attractions offer varying degrees of accessibility. Check their websites for detailed information.
Pavements are generally maintained well, though cobblestones in historical areas might challenge mobility.

Final Travel Tip

Uppsala's compact nature and excellent infrastructure make it a delight to explore. Embrace walking or cycling for an immersive experience.

For longer distances or inclement weather, UL public transport provides reliable and efficient connections.

Local Transportation